Elk NetworkShed Antler Hunter Killed by Grizzly Bear in Montana

General | March 28, 2022

A Montana man in search of shed antlers while hiking died after being attacked by a grizzly bear. It happened in the Six Mile Creek area about 30 miles south of Livingston in southwest Montana.

Family friend and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation member Timothy Nolan of West Brookfield, Massachusetts, reached out to RMEF. He recently spoke to Clouatre’s stepfather who told him Craig grew up in the same town where he currently lives but moved west to live out his dream after graduating from high school.

Search crews utilized thermal imaging late into the night of March 24, 2022, and continued the following morning with horse and ground teams as well as helicopters overhead. Park County Sheriff Brad Bichler reported crews found him the next day after he appeared to have “an encounter with a grizzly and unfortunately did not survive.”

“Anyone who has met Craig, had a friend in him. He was a man full of joy and kindness,” said family friend Kristin Wachob. “And more than anything, he loved his family. He leaves behind a loving wife and four beautiful children.”

According to various reports, a fire destroyed the Clouatre’s home in 2020. They moved into a new house just nine months ago. Friends in Livingston set up a GoFundMe account to assist the family.

(Photo credit:  GoFundMe)